– Red Funnel has announced the the appointment of Fran Collins as its new chief executive officer (CEO).

She takes the helm from Kevin George, who becomes Red Funnel Group chairman, in June

. Fran joins Red Funnel from Portsmouth and Poole-based Condor Ferries where she has held the position of executive director - operations for four years and prior to that was ports and guest services director.

Kevin George said: “Fran’s appointment as CEO is fantastic news for Red Funnel as we embark on the next stage of development of the business under our new ownership. Fran brings a great depth of knowledge in all aspects of operating vital ferry services to Island communities and I am delighted that Red Funnel and the Isle of Wight will now have the opportunity to benefit from her experience and expertise.”

This week the Solent ferry operator announced it would be offering discounts of between ten and 20 per cent to members of the armed forces.

The offers, which are valid year-round, include savings on vehicle and foot passenger travel and are available for anyone with an MoD 90 card or a valid Defence Discount Service card. Serving members of the armed forces, veterans, reserve forces members and MoD civil servants are all eligible to sign up to the Defence Discount Service, as are spouses/partners of serving personnel, say the company.